Why Make This Recipe
Making scones is a delightful experience that brings the warmth of home baking to your kitchen. These fluffy, buttery treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack during the day. Whether enjoyed plain or with your choice of add-ins, scones are versatile and easy to make, making them a favorite among home bakers.
How to Make Scones
Ingredients:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Sugar
- Butter
- Milk
- Various add-ins such as chocolate chips, fruits, cheese, and herbs based on flavor preference
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add milk gradually and stir until just combined.
- Fold in any desired add-ins.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a circle about 1 inch thick.
- Cut into wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
How to Serve Scones
Scones are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain or add butter, jam, or cream for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great option for afternoon snacks or special gatherings.
How to Store Scones
To keep scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips to Make Scones
- Use cold butter to ensure a flaky texture.
- Do not overmix the dough; stir until just combined.
- Experiment with different add-ins to create your favorite flavor combinations.
- Brush the tops with milk or an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish.
Variation
You can make sweet or savory scones. Sweet scones might include ingredients like chocolate chips or berries, while savory options could have cheese, herbs, or spices. Feel free to get creative!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just shape it and cut it before chilling.
2. What can I substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, or buttermilk as substitutes for regular milk in this recipe.
3. How can I tell when the scones are done?
Scones are done when they are golden brown on the outside and spring back when lightly pressed.
Classic Scones
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups Flour All-purpose flour recommended
- 1 tbsp Baking powder Ensure it's fresh for best rise
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 cup Sugar Adjust to taste
Wet Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Butter Use cold for flakiness
- 0.75 cup Milk Can be substituted with plant-based milk or buttermilk
Add-Ins
- 1 cup Various add-ins (chocolate chips, fruits, cheese, herbs) Use your choice based on flavor preference
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add milk gradually and stir until just combined.
- Fold in any desired add-ins.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a circle about 1 inch thick.
- Cut into wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.